Animal Health Research
ANIMAL HEALTH RESEARCH
Feline Research
Dr. Stephen Kania is developing improved assays for the diagnosis of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection. His peptide antigen study has validated a new approach to serological diagnosis of this disease. It has also resulted in the
development of a novel test for a related immunodeficiency virus affecting non-domestic felids. The value of this test was recently determined by collaborators in South Africa. His FIV diagnostic studies are continuing with adaptation of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for clinical diagnosis in response to problems with serological diagnosis caused by the introduction of a new FIV vaccine
Canine Research
Lymphoma
is a common cancer of dogs. Patient prognosis is greatly affected by the type
of lymphocyte causing the disease. Drs. Stephen Kania and Rebecca Seaman have
recently developed techniques to type lymphocytes from lymphomas using flow
cytometry with needle aspirates. Thus valuable information is obtained quickly
and with minimal discomfort.
These investigators are also using flow cytometry to
study the impact of cancer therapy on the immune system. They are analyzing
the lymphocyte populations and other immune parameters in dogs undergoing
radiation or chemotherapy in patients with naturally occurring cancer.
Equine Research
Anaplocephala perfoliata, equine tapeworms, are a risk factor for ileal impaction and spasmodic colic in the horse. Detection of the parasite's eggs is an unreliable test. Dr. Stephen Kania, in partnership with a biotechnology company, is developing a more sensitive, reliable, and less expensive test for the detection of tapeworm infection in horses
